Butter vs Peanut Butter: Nutrition Comparison
Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more
Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026
Which is Healthier?
Peanut Butter is generally healthier
Peanut Butter comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (588 vs 717), more protein (25g vs 0.9g), more fiber (6g vs 0g), making it the better choice for most health goals.
Quick Summary
Fewer Calories
Peanut Butter
588 kcal
More Protein
Peanut Butter
25g
More Fiber
Peanut Butter
6g
Less Sugar
Butter
0.1g
Visual Comparison
Side-by-Side Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Butter | Peanut Butter | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 717kcal | 588kcal✓ | +129.0kcal |
| Protein | 0.9g | 25g✓ | -24.1g |
| Carbohydrates | 0.1g✓ | 20g | -19.9g |
| Fat | 81g | 50g✓ | +31.0g |
| Fiber | 0g | 6g✓ | -6.0g |
| Sugar | 0.1g✓ | 9.4g | -9.3g |
| Sodium | 11mg✓ | 459mg | -448.0mg |
Serving Size Comparison
All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:
Butter
Peanut Butter
Diet Compatibility
Butter
Peanut Butter
When to Choose Butter
- ✓Lower in carbs (0.1g vs 20g)
- ✓Less sugar (0.1g vs 9.4g)
- ✓Lower sodium (11mg vs 459mg)
Common Uses
When to Choose Peanut Butter
- ✓Lower in calories (588 vs 717)
- ✓Higher in protein (25g vs 0.9g)
- ✓More fiber (6g vs 0g)
Common Uses
Butter vs Peanut Butter: Nutritional Analysis
Butter is more calorie-dense at 717 calories per 100g compared to 588 for Peanut Butter, a difference of 129 calories. On the protein front, Peanut Butter delivers more with 25g per 100g versus 0.9g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.
Macronutrient Breakdown
The macronutrient profiles of Butter and Peanut Butter tell different nutritional stories. Butter provides 0.1g of carbohydrates, 81g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Peanut Butter contains 20g carbs, 50g fat, and 6g fiber. The higher fiber content in Peanut Butter supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Butter contains 0.1g while Peanut Butter has 9.4g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.
Key Takeaways
- For weight management: Peanut Butter is the lower-calorie choice at 588 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
- For muscle building: Peanut Butter provides more protein (25g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
- For sustained energy: Peanut Butter offers more fiber (6g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
- Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more calories, Butter or Peanut Butter?
Butter has more calories with 717 kcal per 100g, compared to Peanut Butter with 588 kcal. That's a difference of 129 calories per 100g serving.
Is Butter healthier than Peanut Butter?
Based on our nutritional analysis, Peanut Butter is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Peanut Butter has 588 calories, 25g protein, and 6g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.
What is the protein difference between Butter and Peanut Butter?
Peanut Butter has more protein with 25g per 100g, compared to Butter with 0.9g. Peanut Butter provides 24.1g more protein per 100g serving.
Which is better for weight loss, Butter or Peanut Butter?
For weight loss, Peanut Butter is the better choice with only 588 calories per 100g compared to 717 calories in Butter. Peanut Butter also offers 6g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.
Does Butter or Peanut Butter have fewer carbs?
Butter has fewer carbs with 0.1g per 100g, compared to Peanut Butter with 20g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Butter is the better option with 19.9g fewer carbohydrates.
Related Comparisons
About Our Data
All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.
Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.